Practical Gifts that Every Senior Can Use

Some people have definite ideas of what elderly people want for a holiday gift, while some people have no clue what to give to the elderly people in their lives. Most of the time what they want and what they need is something practical. Too often senior citizens end up receiving totally impractical gifts that end up going completely unused.

Many older people no longer have the ability to get out and shop or run simple errands, but they want to stay in touch with friends and family. Put personalized address labels with a box of all-purpose greeting cards and plenty of stamps for a gift that makes it easy for a senior to send note cards without the hassle of going to the stationery store and post office.

As they age, people find that their vision is failing them and they can no longer enjoy reading. Look for large print books that are easier for them to read. Audio books are another option and if your recipient is hearing impaired they can adjust the volume to a level that is audible for them. For a more personal touch you may want to record yourself or your older children reading a book. If the person lives far away and does not see your family often they will enjoy hearing your voices reading to them.

Cold weather can be hard on older people. Arthritis and other ailments may be worsened by the temperature and it is even harder if they are on a fixed income and unable to afford high heating bills. They may find that they are cold even on warmer days. A warm throw makes a useful gift. Fleece or down throws are cozy and provide warmth on even the coldest winter nights.

Gift cards also make great gifts since many seniors are on a fixed income. They enjoy dining out with their friends, but may feel it is a luxury they can't afford. A gift card to their favorite restaurant or even to their favorite supermarket would be truly appreciated.

With all the violence and sexuality on television today you will hear the older generation longing for "the good old days". A variety of older classic television shows such as "I Love Lucy", "The Andy Griffith Show", and "The Honeymooners" are available on DVD. There are also classic radio shows available on CD.

A French memory board serves not only as a decorative item, but also as a place where memories such as pictures and postcards can be displayed. Studies have shown that
having pictures and memorabilia around them can help people with memory problems.

There are a variety of gadgets on the market that are geared specifically to make things easier for seniors. There are large button remotes, large button phones and amplified phones. OXO Good Grips offers an entire line of kitchen utensils, small tools, and storage products that are designed specifically for easy use, making them great for people with arthritis or limited strength.

Also available are many different kinds of hand and foot creams that are helpful to people with extremely dry skin. Good foot care is a must for people with diabetes and Arbonne International makes an "Herbal Foot Care' that is botanically based, refreshing and rejuvenating for tired feet.

Everyone enjoys looking good and being pampered and the elderly are no exception. A gift certificate to a nice salon for a hairstyle, manicure and pedicure would be a delightful surprise for the older ladies on your gift list.

Housekeeping and yard work can prove to be difficult and tiring for the aging, so the gift of a housecleaning service for spring or fall cleaning or a yard service could really come in handy and perhaps even prevent injuries that could be incurred by a person trying to do something they are not able to do.

The best gift that you can ever give anyone is the gift of your time. The elderly, especially, look forward to having you visit their homes and the companionship you provide. Do not forget those in your life who are getting up in years. More than likely they were there for you when you were young and they now need you to be there for them.